The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) on Friday hosted its 2026 Business Breakfast Seminar at the Guyana Marriott Hotel, focusing on how micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) can position themselves to access financing through the proposed Small and Medium-sized Enterprise (SME) Development Bank of Guyana. According to information shared by the Chamber on social media, the seminar brought together entrepreneurs, business leaders and key stakeholders for a morning of presentations, discussion and networking aimed at strengthening understanding of the bank’s structure and opportunities.

GCCI President Kathy Smith, speaking at the event, said the initiative reflects Government efforts to expand access to capital for small businesses and to support enterprise development across the country. She said MSMEs play a critical role in economic growth and job creation and must be supported through targeted financial instruments. Smith noted that the establishment of the SME Development Bank is intended to address long-standing calls from the private sector for improved access to financing. She stressed that while opportunities are expanding, businesses must ensure they are properly prepared to access available support. According to Smith, bankability and compliance remain key requirements for entrepreneurs seeking financing. She urged business owners to maintain proper records, strengthen governance structures and ensure that their operations meet basic financial standards in order to qualify for loans.

She also encouraged entrepreneurs to take advantage of platforms provided by the GCCI and other institutions to improve their readiness, noting that access to finance depends not only on the availability of funding but also on the preparedness of applicants.